Beer can hardly be called a traditional Chinese beverage, that’s why the idea of the beer festival in China seems to be really weird. However, if you knew the history of Qingdao, you’d understand why this kind of festival is really appropriate for China, and especially for the city.
The beer-brewing period began in Qingdao back in 1900s, when the city, no more than a small village then, became a German colony. Germans couldn’t leave the idea of brewing their own beer there, that’s why they build the world-famous Tsingtao Brewery, that is now the largest brewery in China. And although Japan occupied the city in 1914, the brewery wasn’t closed.
The modern Qingdao International Beer Festival started only in 1991, when the city was celebrating it’s 100th anniversary. Since then every summer a four-week celebration of beer is held in Qingdao. It starts on the first Saturday in August and takes place in different locations of the city.
This festival is full of different events, that attendees can enjoy. There’s a grand opening ceremony, music concert, beer tasting, drinking contest and also different carnival events for your entertainment. Don’t miss your chance to look at the festival mascots, that follow the signs of the Chinese Zodiac.
Apart from beer, there are tons of different food to try. You may try traditional Chinese and Western snacks and meals, while drinking the beer from all over the world. All major international brewing companies are presented here, including Corona, Heineken, Budweiser, Beck’s, Carlsberg and Tiger. Qingdao and Chinese beers are also here for you to try.
